• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 03/15/2024
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Veteran cricketer Matthew Wade has revealed that he will bid farewell to first-class cricket after the upcoming Sheffield Shield final clash between Tasmania and Western Australia on March 21 in Perth. This highly anticipated match will mark Wade’s 166th and final appearance in the first-class format.

Grateful Acknowledgments

In a heartfelt statement, Wade expressed gratitude towards his family for their unwavering support throughout his career, acknowledging their sacrifices as he pursued his cricketing ambitions. He also extended his appreciation to his teammates and the cricketing associations of Victoria and Tasmania for their support and guidance.

“Although I will continue to play white-ball cricket, wearing the baggy green while representing my country remains a cherished highlight of my career,” said Wade.

The 36-year-old cricketer, hailing from Hobart, has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over a decade. With 36 Test matches for Australia under his belt, Wade has amassed over 1600 runs at an impressive average of 29.87. Notably, he has secured four Sheffield Shield titles with Victoria, showcasing his prowess as a player and a leader on the field.

Wade’s journey in first-class cricket has been characterised by resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite facing setbacks, including relinquishing his role as a wicketkeeper to Tim Paine, Wade bounced back to deliver stellar performances, earning accolades for his contributions to the sport.

Farewell to Red-Ball Cricket

Reflecting on his decision to retire from first-class cricket, Wade emphasised his enduring love for the red-ball format, highlighting its camaraderie and unique experiences. He expressed his fondness for post-match rituals, such as sharing a drink with teammates after many encounters, underscoring the cherished memories he will carry with him.

“I’m going to miss sitting down after four days of really grinding it out in a first-class game and having a beer with your teammates,” Wade remarked.

Looking ahead, Wade remains committed to excelling in white-ball cricket, particularly in tournaments like the Big Bash League (BBL), where he aims to make significant contributions as a finisher for the Hobart Hurricanes. Despite bidding farewell to the game’s longer format, Wade’s passion and enthusiasm for cricket remain undiminished as he sets his sights on new challenges and opportunities in the years to come.